India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan discuss women's cricket

In Lahore, the three ICC member countries, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka discussed the possibilities of popularising and enhancing women's cricket in a joint venture with each supporting the other. They evaluated their present standard from which to go forward as each country had their own individual setbacks.

Shubani kulkarni, the Asian ICC representative and President Women's Cricket of India was of view that more cricket has to be played at national and international level for them to come in par with New Zealand and Australia.

Their country's image was boosted when India ended up being runner-up in the World Cup 2005. Asia Cup, she said, would be an annual event to stir the interest of women's cricket. Kulkarni said she was happy at the progress her team made at the World Cup.

In contrast to her objectives, Gwen Herat, President, Women's Cricket Association of Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka CRICKET/WC came out strongly on the dismal performance of the SL team that left the country where she was when much was expected but the lack of motivation created in the team, saw her fumbling.

Turning around the team is our responsibility she said for which several international tournaments have been lined up. With the WCASL merging with ICC and SINGER being the national sponsor, the problem could be handled with care to produce results and results have to be shown by the team and her new coach. There are many young newcomers who are eager and willing.

Dr. Mira Phailbus, President-Pakistan Women's Cricket said, We have to go step by step to reach where India is today and we are mapping out strategies how best this can be done. We, hosting the Asia Cup is a memorable event for beginners like us.